Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin presented the 2024 Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy to Capt. Harry "Butcher" McMahon during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Sept. 26.
The trophy is named after 1st Lt. Koren Kolligian Jr., an Air Force pilot who was declared missing when his T-33 Shooting Star disappeared off the California coast on Sept. 14, 1955.
"This is the highest safety achievement award that we give," Allvin said. "It's not just about safety. It's about operational effectiveness."
On July 28, 2023, McMahon, 80th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot, 8th Fighter Wing, Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, demonstrated exceptional Airmanship during a training sortie. After an in-flight engine failure, McMahon safely recovered his aircraft and landed at a Korean air base with no U.S. presence.
Allvin praised McMahon for his exceptional aviation skills and quick decision-making abilities, which prevented injuries and ultimately saved combat asset.
"Capt. McMahon exemplifies what it means to be an American Airman and aviator. When facing danger, he was decisive and cool-headed, allowing him to successfully problem-solve and navigate a life-threatening situation," Allvin said.
During the sortie, McMahon heard an unidentifiable "thump" from his engine. Together with his flight lead, Maj. Micheal "Flint" Sarno, they decided to return to base as a precaution. However, a second, louder "thump" from the engine was accompanied by a loss of thrust, decreased engine performance, and decreased engine temperature. The emergency power unit automatically engaged, providing the necessary electrical and hydraulic power to maintain flight.
McMahon immediately turned toward the nearest suitable airfield and tried to restart his engine. Unfortunately, the engine never regained enough usable power, forcing him to land via a maneuver called the "flameout approach" to avoid colliding with two Korean F-35s taking off from the opposite direction.
McMahon credited his wingman for making it home safely that day. He also highlighted the importance of the training he received from the Air Force.
"I'm optimistic the Air Force is in the right path; the training is the right way, and the simulators are close to real life," he said.
Presented annually, the Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy is the only individual flight safety award personally presented by the Air Force chief of staff.
